No Play In Bottom Ball Joints, Track Rod End, Or Inner Track

[mrben]

But....car still wonders about. Especially bad when you go over a manhole

cover in the wet. I previously found a worn inner track rod. Loads of play in it.

I was chuffed because I thought this has got to be the problem. I renewed inner

rod, and track rod end while I was at it, but was gutted to find there

is still a problem. Not as bad as it was ( it was bleddy dangerous before),

but definitely still a noticeable problem. Any suggestions. Thanks.

[BrianH]

Did you get it aligned afterwards? Tyres can also have an effect what are you running it on?

[mrben]

Hi Brian. No I didn't get aligned. I was saving that for when I get 2 new front tyres.

I gave the track rod end exactly the same amount of turns as the old one, so don't think

it is a million miles out, but obviously a bit out.

There feels like there is too much play in the steering wheel. Camber's in road

also have a big effect like manhole covers. 15'' tyres. Not sure on other sizes, will find out later.

[BrianH]

Hi Brian. No I didn't get aligned. I was saving that for when I get 2 new front tyres.

I gave the track rod end exactly the same amount of turns as the old one, so don't think

it is a million miles out, but obviously a bit out.

There feels like there is too much play in the steering wheel. Camber's in road

also have a big effect like manhole covers. 15'' tyres. Not sure on other sizes, will find out later.

 

That in theory should be ok, IF it was right in the first place of course. Though doing it on new tyres is a good plan.

 

Its worth checking the load rating on the tyres - my mk1 on 15" wheels is fine with 95 (xl) rated tyres, the handling is terrible in the usual ratings for that size (wallows in corners, bounces etc). I was dubious when i took it for alignment and they said wrong tyres, but it made a hell of a difference, and the right rated tyres lasted longer as well.

[mrben]

Ok will look. Thanks for the reply bri.

[howey]

Have your strut top bearings ever been replaced?

[mrben]

Not that I know off on this car. I know that its a ballache job from other galaxy, bit costly aswell,

as may as well do shock and spring if going for bearing. How do I test to see if that bearing is gone?

if it was, I would have thought it would be just a grinding noise when turning, rather than throwing

the car off track?, so to speak...